Kaieteur News

K

Friday Edition Consumers call AIETEUR NEWS for protection against price gouging March 18, 2022 - Vol. 24 No. 11

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Online Price $80 readership yesterday, 72,469

...bemoan hiked prices for basic food, other items

Disharmony in EPA, Maritime, Petroleum Laws could spell disaster for Guyana if oil APA calls on spill occurs - IDB Report Govt. to give Queen's College students on Wednesday participated in Phagwah activities ahead of today's celebrations of the Hindu Spring Festival (Ministry of Education photo)

to all Guyanese

more support to Venezuelan migrants Tax credit remains viable option than oil and gas tax giveaways

Cyclist killed in Mandela Avenue crash

Govt. set to cut powers ...following landmark ruling of DPPby CCJ in Marcus Bisram case Suriname got their citizens on the drillships learning how to drill holes looking for oil; while on Jagdeo have Guyanese pushing their hands in crab holes to provide crab services. @11:00hrs 99.1/99.5FM

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Friday March 18, 2022

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Friday March 18, 2022

Disharmony in EPA Maritime, Petroleum Laws could spell disaster for Guyana if oil spill occurs - IDB Report

An analytical review of Guyana's legislative framework for the oil sector has unearthed concerning instances of disharmony which could work against the interest of the State.

Specifically, experts at the Inter-American Development Bank have said such friction exists in the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) A c t 1 9 8 6 ( P E PA ) , t h e Environmental Protection Agency Act 1996, and the Maritime Zones Act 2010.

In a technical report titled: Traversing a Slippery Slope: Guyana's Oil Opportunity the consultants highlighted that these three pieces of legislation not only have overlapping duties which could cause confusion, but also contain vague language regarding environmental standards, which ultimately, could allow oil operators enough scope to escape penalties for negligence.

Elaborating on the web of discord uncovered, the IDB consultants said one must first understand the powers of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA is a

semi-autonomous body corporate, governed by the Environmental Protection Act of 1996. That law brings under its jurisdiction, functions concerning Guyana's natural environment and includes all land, water, sea, seabed, marine and coastal areas, and natural resources.

The EPA therefore plays a coordinating role in the preparation and implementation of crosssectoral programmes of environmental contents and to perform such other functions pertaining to the protection of the environment as may be assigned to it by the subject Minister by or under the Act or any other written law. Thus, IDB consultants said it would be impossible to underestimate the EPA's authority over any environmental matter in Guyana, including areas of the sea where oil companies operate and that are claimed

by Guyana and to which – under the Maritime Zones Act – its law extends.

Further to this, the IDB consultants noted that the EPA (Continued on page 8)

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Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL - Tel: 624-6456 Editor: Sharmain Grainger Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Guyana's oil fund The more we think of Guyana's oil fund, the more it becomes obvious that the devil is at work. This national oil fund that means so much to Guyanese, none more than the poorer and hopeful ones, is being layered with darkness and handled in deeper darkness. What started out as a jumbie that frightened Guyanese is now a jumble of uncertainty, anxiety, and is nothing but 'stink and dutty'. From all appearances, the outlook is that is what it is going to be with all things associated with this national oil fund in the hands of a clever PPP/C Government and its twisted leaders.

From the inception, Government leaders were consumed by a drive to operate in the dark, as if the business of Guyana's oil monies was a personal matter, and something to be handled with stealth and slickness. The Natural Resource Fund (NRF) bill that was placed in parliament was rushed, with debate limited. There was steamrolling of objections from all corners, and artful dismissal of calls to slow down and involve more Guyanese in the deliberation of this most pivotal of revenue and profit streams. Of all the times in Guyana's calendar, PPP/C Government leaders selected for ramming home the NRF bill into law, it had to be in the heart of the national Christmas holiday season. In terms of cunning that can't be bettered, regarding likely corrupt leadership intentions, those are now coming to light.

The law's provisions for a Board of Directors, an Investment Committee, and a Public Accountability and Oversight Committee are all still in the preparatory and formative stages, but money from the nation's oil fund held in a New York bank is identified as part of this country's 2022 budget billions. In the first instance, this is the equivalent of jumping the gun, and in the second, comes the question as to why this inordinate hurry is necessary. We would think that it makes for much better sense to erect the proper structure, people it appropriately, and then allow for the systems in place to conduct all deliberating that makes for prudent management of this nationally sensitive fund/bank account.

In a time and culture where most matters under this PPP/C Government control are now characterized by haste and laying waste to those who speak out in protest, this is not surprising at all. There can be no explanation, no justification, no leadership position that eases the concerns and alarms of a growing number of citizens about the way the Government is going about managing this national oil fund. The law itself is clear, in that Article 13 of it states: “withdrawal from the Fund can only be used for national developmental priorities and essential projects related to natural disaster.” This was what was pointed out by the civil society group of the same name. “National development priorities” and “essential projects related to national disaster” certainly have a certain level of specificity about them.In other words, whenever withdrawals occur, or are slated to take place, by whatever allocative mechanism or prearrangement that is publicly tabled and finalized, those withdrawals cannot be for the general, or the vague, or what is lumped under the broad umbrella of an annual national budget. It is too open-ended, and comes across as purposeful premeditation and preparation on the part of PPP/C Government leaders to play fast and loose with oil fund dollars. It is as if they are equipping themselves to do wrong with those billions.

Even the kindest bow to this budgetary development involving the nation's precious oil fund leaves an acute sense of Government leaders starting out with the worst motivations and ambitions. It is so that they can continue to wage the same corrupting and draining leadership wars on the hopes of the Guyanese people. When this kind of groundwork is laid by leaders, then only the devastating will follow. This is what has occurred with numerous billiondollar projects before. The systems of controls mean nothing, the law itself is made to look lacking in relevance and teeth, and the dreams and prospects of the nation's population are now open to the most dangerous manipulations and exploitations at the hands of criminal leaders.

Speaker must allow all the clauses of MP Patterson's Motion Dear Editor The Report produced for USAID on Democracy, human rights and governance assessment: Guyana (2021) makes the following observation in several places: 'The constitution mandates a high degree of cabinet involvement in executive decision-making while the National Assembly serves as check on the executive branch. Consequentially, the executive branch of government is both protected and isolated from outside influence because there is no real ability for the opposition, civil society or the media to penetrate the inner workings of the executive' (p. 58).

Dispiriting as that observation is, Guyanese citizens still expect the National Assembly to serve as a convening space in which Parliamentarians can discuss matters of national interest, in the interest of transparency and so that there is a public record of at least some aspects of the discussion.In this context, the partisan actions of the Speaker confirm the low assessment of democracy in the USAID report.

The Speaker has delayed the tabling of Motions and amended them unilaterally.

The most recent episode concerns the Motion submitted on 16 February 2022 by MP David Patterson calling, inter alia, for 'full

unlimited liability coverage for oil spills and other disasters related to petroleum production as a condition for granting approval for the proposed Yellowtail development and all other future petroleum development.'

The real and present danger of oil spills to the marine life and ecosystems that line not only our coast but those of a huge swathe of Caribbean nations makes the issue of full insurance coverage urgent and timely.

Yet, a month later, readers learned from a KN report that 'The Speaker in a written response to the Member of Parliament (MP), dated February 28, 2022, informed that 13 of the 20 clauses in Patterson's Motion have been disallowed, while two of the 'whereas' clauses were also amended' (Bagot, D. (2022). Speaker weakens Opposition's Motion on full coverage insurance.

Kaieteur News, 15 March 2022. Available from:

https://www.kaieteurnew sonline.com/2022/03/15/ speaker-weakensoppositions-motion-onfull-coverage-insurance/).

KN reported a day later, 'the Speaker is reported to have also told Patterson that evidence must be provided to the House, to substantiate the claims he made in his Motion' (Kaieteur News.

(2022). Speaker wants evidence that an oil spill can

leave Guyana bankrupt.

Kaieteur News, 16 March 2022. Available from:

https://www.kaieteurnew sonline.com/2022/03/16/ speaker-wants-evidencethat-an-oil-spill-canleave-guyana-bankrupt/).

Editor, I suggest that the Speaker is acting outside of his remit. Standing Order 26 of the National Assembly – admissibility of motions – listed nine conditions for admissibility of motions and indeed Standing Order 27 (2) does not require the Speaker of the National Assembly to give reasons for his/her opinion about infringements of those provisions.

This matter is not covered explicitly in Erskine May's 'Treatise on the law, privileges, procedures and usage of Parliament' [the Westminster UK Parliament, 25th edition, 2019,

https://erskinemay.parlia ment.uk/. However, Part 4 Chapter 28 of this superbly organised and very accessible online edition implies that the Speaker is reasonable and that Parliament is a constructive process. The November 2011 edition of the Standing Orders for the National Assembly of Guyana refers to Erskine May's Treatise so one may assume that the underlying concepts also apply in Guyana.

If this is so, then the Speaker is not empowered to make ex cathedra statements

and issue instructions without explanation.

Indeed, appendix V of the Standing Orders is a compendium of rulings by the Speaker, in which reasons for particular decisions are laid out.

I draw to readers' attention the statement by then Speaker H N (Ralph) Ramkarran on 27 March 2008, in which he mentions that a Member can challenge the Speaker by way of a motion – 'Where a Member is dissatisfied with a decision of the Speaker approving a motion, he or she has a right and every opportunity to table a motion challenging the decision of the Speaker'.

Then Speaker Ralph Ramkarran ended his Statement by saying, 'Let me hasten to add that decisions of all public officials, including the Speaker, are subject to critical review by the press and public'.

Editor, through your newspaper, I call on: MP David Patterson to present a procedural motion to allow a full debate on the issues raised in his motion gutted with little explanation by the Speaker,; the Speaker to allow all the clauses of MP Patterson's Motion ' full unlimited liability coverage for oil spills and other disasters related to petroleum production' to be debated in our National Assembly.

Regards Janette Bulkan

Friday March 18, 2022

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NY Guyanese Diaspora Gear up for Holi Compel your political leaders to overcome DEAR EDITOR, smeared faces. tal love for his wife Goddess this apparent arrogance and sit and talk Guyanese in New York Guyanese diaspora in Radha. area are gearing up for Holi or Phagwa that is celebrated Friday in Guyana as well as in New York and most of the Indian diaspora.

Like in Guyana, in Mauritius, India, and several other societies, Holi is a public holiday.

But in New York, Holi is not a public holiday although celebrants have excused absence from school.

Thus, Holi is not celebrated on Friday but on a day convenient to the diaspora.

The presence of large numbers of Guyanese and other Indo-Caribbean Hindus in selected locations in America and the organising skills of community leaders have made it possible for Phagwah to be celebrated with the same traditions as brought to the West by their ancestors from Mother India to the Caribbean (Guyana, etc.) and from there to America.

The spirit of Holi has truly traversed a great distance.

Guyanese have introduced and institutionalized the festival in New York and other parts of America.

Phagwah or Holi is the most popular Hindu festival observed in New York City attracting the largest crowd of revelers in the tens of thousands with Guyanese in the thick of things – as organisers, sponsors, presenters, and celebrants.

Holi is known as the festival of colour that is equated with the vibrancy of life because it brightens the atmosphere bringing forth a joyous feeling in people.

It is a day of unbridled enthusiasm with a lot of music and food. It is a sea of colours —colored water rains everywhere for Holi.

There are also colorful powders. Peoples’ faces and hair get drenched in layers of colours.

Americans of all backgrounds and ethnicities partake in the festival with

America usually observe Holi with parade (s) in Richmond Hill, Queens Village, Bronx, Jersey City, Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale, etc. and or a gathering in a public park on the Sunday after the holiday.

The parade and public celebration was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 because of the Covid pandemic.

This year, NYC police and parks department have granted permit to have a gathering (Liberty Ave and 120 Street) for a Phagwah related concert on March 27 starting around noon thru the afternoon.

But abeer, talc powder, and colourful materials have been banned. Police will enforce the ban. There would be only music, singing, and dancing.

Representatives of various mandirs will perform.

Spiritually inclined NGOs were known to serve snacks and hot beverages to the public.

The Richmond Hill parade and celebration at the park usually attracted tens of thousands of celebrants.

There are many messages behind Holi and all are relevant for the multi-ethnic Guyana and her diaspora — with a common theme of triumph of good over evil.

Holi or Phagwah marks the beginning of the Indian spring.

In India, the celebration was used to give thanks for the harvest season.

Phagwah also celebrates the richness or a bounty of harvest and comes at a time when the season changes.

The winter season is fading and Spring is bursting forth bringing with it new life.

And people are in a celebratory mood.

After two months of hard feelings, the public needs to get back to celebrating life, the celebration of Holi.

The festival also celebrates the joyful spirit of Lord Krishna and his immor-

In Mathura and Vrindavan in India, the festival is celebrated not just with colours but also with folk songs and dances.

In Guyana, Trinidad, Surinam, and elsewhere, there is folk singing.

Classical dances and music were known to be performed continuously for many hours showing uncontrollable friendship and love for others, neighbours, friends, loved ones (spouses and other siblings). People come together in a show of friendship to celebrate the festival.

The same is true in New York where politicians also grace public celebrations or host Holi celebrations in their office or legislative chambers.

Holi falls on the full moon in the month of March.

On the evening, of the full moon, known as Holika Dahan, bonfire pyre is lit.

On Thursday evening, mandirs will lit their bonfire or pyre to mark the occasion.

In New York, Tulsi Mandir has been hosting a nightly yag since Sunday evening that concludes Thursday with burning of Holika.

The significance is the burning of evil – one’s mind is cleansed of evil thoughts and deeds and bad mind.

The bonfire also symbolizes the destruction of the wick e d H o l i k a ( w h o wanted to kill her nephew) at the instruction of her brother.

After burning of Holika, everything evil and bad is cast aside.

Let us use the symbolism of Holika to burn the hatred in us towards others. Happy Holi!

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Dear Editor, At the risk of being tedious and repetitive, I hope nevertheless to persuade all Guyanese to avoid the many distractions and rocks thrown on our roads to prosperity and peace through unity, tolerance and understanding.

There are many distractions, but I have faith in humanity.

That if we look at the templates of the past, try to analyze the present, that even though only the divine can fashion the future, that this generation can help create conditions for our future of hope and happiness.

For example, one distraction we saw in Parliament recently, is the rejection by Speaker Manzoor Nadir of a motion seeking to have full coverage insurance in the event of an oil spill.

The Hon. Speaker left room for neither discussion nor debate and posing absurd questions reminds me that if Nadir’s interpretation of the law governing the conduct of Parliament, then I remember Mr. Bumble’s outburst in Charles Dickens’ Play, Oliver Twist, when he said that “the law is an ass.”

In this case, I pose the rhetorical question: is it the law or those who speak (an unintended pun) is the ass?

Today, I urge Guyanese to compel their political leaders to overcome this apparent arrogance and sit and talk.

Another distraction: On the programme Public Platform, on Channel 9 last Wednesday, the issue of this conflict in Ukraine surfaced and here I again urge that we the descendants of the earliest inhabitants, the Amerindians, the Manumitted African slaves and the Indentured labourers from India, China and Madiera must not ignore their sufferings and sit down and talk, talk about how we can share the bounty of our natural resources and stop behaving as though the wealth of our

minerals, marine and oil belong to a chosen few.

Too much time, I believe, is being spent on this contentious issue in Ukraine, where the Guyanese public including our publishers have over many decades been conditioned to respond based on the news coming mainly from one side.

In life, every story has three sides, your side, my side and the third side, which is often the whole story; seldom told.

Our Leaders, particularly, those in charge of Government must buckle down to ease the heavy burden of the heads of our women, in particular, who must get their children a healthy meal before sending them off to school, must find the money for the pas s a g e t o g e t t h e m t o school and to purchase uniforms and other essentials.

The above, where without exception, the cost has risen.

The announcement by the Government to ease electricity and water rates is far too little.

What was not said, was if their wealthy friends in the business community would benefit from these proposals and here lies a concern we have that this PPP Administration has moved far, far away of th e i d e a l s o f t h e i r founders and that what is apparent today is action by the Government intended to benefit their friends who are the big merchants and the favoured Contractors, and that we see nothing, absolutely nothing that will make the small man a real man by easing price increases and just about everything.

This means unless we hear otherw i se t h a t t h e b i g ones, who consume large amounts of electricity and water will derive the same level

of reduction for the small man who has a few lights, a radio and television in his house and utilizes a few gallons of water as announced by the President. We did not hear of a cut-off point.

I listened to the words of President Ali as he commissioned the Well at Lusignan.

There was no indication that there would be a cut-off point based on consumption pattern.

If applied, as we heard from the President, it is a guarantee that the gap with the Upper Class and the Lower Class will widen and is no more in the present circumstances than sop to Cerberus.

The tragedy unfolding before our eyes supported by a well-oiled and heavily funded propaganda machine, and here I bet my bottom dollar that this letter will not find favour for publication in known Government propaganda radio, television and newspapers.

When will we be led by another Burnham and another Cheddi Jagan?

Regards, Hamilton Green Elder

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The Speaker of the House: a House tarnished irreparably DEAR EDITOR, There are fewer higher profile presences or positions in Guyana than that of the Speaker of the National Assembly. Some of the previous holders of this prestigious national office did succeed in elevating its responsibilities and workings to the heights.

In an always demanding environment, they delivered works of skilled art, of circumspection, as they navigated between the push and pull of government and opposition respectively; understood the passions and expectations of the wider population; and recognized the cynicisms and distrusts that were the norms of their times and mostly draining duties. Some excelled, others managed, today one falters grievously and most ingloriously.

Today’s Speaker of Guyana’s House, I am absolutely sure, is a person of courage, a man of duty, a citizen of patriotic essences. But not when he is faced with the challenges that are those inseparable and unwavering characteristics that go along with being Speaker of Guyana’s august and pristine lawmaking body.

The dignity and honor that are associated with this rare office abandon him. And with embarrassing haste. It as if all the goodness and thoughtfulness that I believe are possessed by the Hon. Speaker finds it necessary to vacate his suddenly radically different body.

His mind tightens and narrows into knots, his hands coil and tense with readiness to strike at the heart and soul of whatever Opposition members, also honorable I remind all, table as motions.

His face tells the story of his turmoil: a man caught between serving two less than illustrious masters -ingeniously deceptive seniors and decisions that damn him for a man not in control of his own actions, but someone who will go wherever led.

I ask Guyana, the whole

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world, including my American brothers (that they still are, I assure all) one simple question. How can full insurance coverage in all of its alarms and fears, as well as the sturdy convictions that come from its absence, not hurt this poor society, could not possibly more deeply imperil and further impoverish it? The Speaker is a bright enough Guyanese to know the answer(s) to that ordinary, most commonplace of inquiries. Yet, what he proceeds to do in the wise exercise of his high office speaks to not a Speaker of the National Assembly, the nation’s house, but a Speaker for Freedom House, or some other house of equivalent iniquity.

This is how the Speaker savages the great obligations that crowns his head, that is incorporated in the scepter his hand holds with so much of a pronounced tilt to the extreme.

When the Speaker operates in this glaringly troubling, I should say offensive manner, he mangles what is supposed to be, expected to be, the unsullied integrity, even the solemn decorum, of the office of Speaker of the House. When he insists on mangling opposition efforts to shine some light on it, to have a conversation on oil spill insurance, to weigh and measure the pluses and minuses of both its presence and absence, then he does a rank injustice to the safety, and much talked about potential for prosperity, of this country and its trapped, hapless peoples. When the Speaker, a man of honor that is of an especially distinctive strain, could bring himself to ask to be furnished with evidence of likely economic bankruptcy from a disastrous oil spill, then he did degrade himself beyond calculation.

Indeed, those waters that wash over his head have not been traveled by Magellan or Vasco Da Gama; not even the man who visited some 20,000 leagues below the sea. I say

the Speaker went beyond that nether level. For what the Speaker said he stood for, or was put up to, represents seeking proof of a potentially punishing predicament before it happens.

This is not of the Speaker measuring probability, but of his demanding reality to be created in advance for his edification. I don’t want to say it, but my own standing orders compel me: the Speaker may be rich in countless things, but in one massive and meaningful component he comes across as almost totally bankrupt. It is the wisdom that leads to discernment, even the visions that grace with little threads of understanding.

This day, I write of insurance only, but Guyanese with reasonable memories should recall some other damaging decisions taken by the Speaker through his blocking actions; or those that be more charitably described as cleverly diminishing or calculatedly protective. I point to the ill-starred and troubled gas to shore ambition (it is that, isn’t it, and for all the wrong reasons?), which was castrated by his Speaker’s scalpel; the ugly and, as Guyanese are already finding out, that also already haemorrhaging oil fund law. If the Speaker could not stand fairly for matters that are so loaded with significance for this nation and its peoples, then there is little of anything else that he can stand for, or claim to stand for, which is also his official and personal prerogative.

I don’t, and Guyanese shouldn’t, need the Clerk of the National Assembly to be the lonely messenger saddled with the task of enlightening us. When I consider all this, and much more, I recoil from what the office of the Speaker of the National Assembly has disintegrated into; this rubble, this degree of political arsonism, these deliveries of intolerable atrocities.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

The United States of America’s Travel Advisory and its implication DEAR EDITOR, In a previous letter to the editor, I highlighted the fact that the area around The Stabroek Market Block must be cleared of all derelict structures and that entire area properly developed into a modern urban commercial hub, before any real change can take place in Guyana.

It is a glaring fact that no one can deny or simply gloss over.

I say this because that area is a representation of the largest congregation of people of all types and groups, with varying agendas, most of which is not in keeping with legal activities.

Those characters that frequent this area make for one big lawless, ghetto-style confusion out there.

Municipal markets in the city are places where people navigate through speeding

traffic and narrow passageways, vendors haggling, city touts shouting to the top of their lungs, all caught up in a daily profusion that is unsightly and dangerous.

There is shouting and cursing, a place where vagrants abound, amidst rotting smelly garbage.

The stench of urine is suffocating! On a daily basis this is the “normal” state of affairs in uptown Georgetown.

In such situations thieves and pick pocket hustlers roam free, because the situation encourages the lawlessness. The situation gets even worse, as everything in those quarters creates the ideal atmosphere for such nefarious activities to flourish.

There is a total absence of law and order around city markets.

It therefore behooves

anyone to well understand why The United States of America issued a Travel Advisory on Guyana.

The US is advising its citizens to be wary of the elements that infest this area, giving specific directives as to how and when to conduct business in and around those places.

It is the sad reality that we all have to face.

I close by saying City municipal market locations are breathing ground for crime and if the mayor and councillors of Georgetown does not u n d e r s t a n d this, then it paints all of us Guyanese in the worst possible light both on the local turf as well as on the International scene.

We can ill afford such negative publicity at this crucial stage of our development.

Respectfully Submitted Neil Adams

Clarifying TCIs position on the submission of 2020 Election Campaign Finances DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me some space to offer a public clarification on The Citizenship Initiative’s (TCIs) submission of campaign financial statements for contesting the 2020 General Elections.

In accordance with Chapter 12 Section, 108 (1) of the Representation of the Peoples Act, The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) submitted to GECOM Election Expenses as a declaration of TCIs related election expenses incurred between March 2nd Aug 2nd 2020.

TCI acknowledges that the stipulated 35-day period had already passed, but due

to the now historical circumstances that almost derailed the electoral process of 2020, the party was unable to submit in light of all the mitigation efforts in which TCI played its part to salvage the election.

Had the process gone smoothly, every effort would have been made to submit the expenses well within the stipulated period.

TCI hopes GECOM, in good faith, recognizes these extenuating circumstances that posed uncharted challenges for the party (and many others contesting) and accepts the submission accord-

ingly. TCI also submitted campaign finance records in the interest of total transparency and accountability.

It is my firm commitment, on behalf of TCI, that our party will adhere to all provisions stipulated when contesting any future elections.

We thank the G u y a n e s e public for their encouragement and support and look forward to building trust and leading by example as we look to evolve Guyana for all citizens.

Regards, Shazaam Ally Executive Member The Citizenship Initiative (TCI)

Ministries must not instruct from where to purchase equipment DEAR EDITOR, A perusal of the letter sections over the last several months revealed a large number of unanswered questions relating to government contracting of services — giving out contracts, purchasing equipment, handing out grants, among other issues.

Engineering catastrophes, procurement of equipment, handing out grants, etc., seem to have become money making enterprises for those in authority as well as some who are politically-connected.

Unanswered questions, allegations, and doling out grants warrant an investigation.

Interaction with staff at ministries suggests that contractors are instructed from where to purchase equipment and the type of equipment to be ordered.

Officials give themselves contracts in companies in the name of others. Suggested equipment for government undertaking may not be up to par for the task to be done.

Contractors say some of the proposed models of equipment are inferior.

Contractors complain that if they resist instructions of where to purchase equipment and the quality of equipment, contractors will be denied contracts.

No Minister or government official should instruct contractors where to procure equipment or materials and what type or model.

Complaints against corruption and alleged drawbacks are just brushed aside.

Those who complain against corruption are victimized.

Decent citizens feel that the only outcome against wrong doing is the sacrifice made by the complainant who becomes victimized.

An investigation is warranted. Will there be any?

Is corruption equal to development?

Yours truly, Nigel Griffith

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How it is that our society has become so intolerant and divorced from rational thinking?

This is evident in the way many of us behave. The use of a weapon is often preferred over the spoken words to resolve a dispute.

Then, instead of being concerned about the needs of the masses, there are those in authority, who opt to burden us with their vision, which translates sometimes to projects that only benefit them.

Except we band together with the common goal of making Guyana a better place for all, we will continue along a path of certain doom.

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Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

MMG+ seen as 'game changer' in financial technology in Guyana Mobile Money Guyana (mmg+) was hailed as an innovative benefit to consumers by users, during a panel discussion hosted by the Consumer Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, on March 15 in r e c o g n i t i o n o f Wo r l d Consumer Rights Day. In a press release, GTT said that mmg+ founded in 2013 provides a spectrum of financial services to customers. Among them, consumers can pay bills, as well as top up their GTT phones, send and receive money, shop and pay for consumer items such as groceries. Some customers can also transfer money from their bank accounts to their

MMG General Manager, Bobita Ram mmg+ wallets to make these payments.

According to mmg+ General Manager, Bobita Ram, mmg+ has made

everyday life more convenient for Guyanese, citing the ease of use and added security.

The provision of these services is in keeping with the promise to innovate for all in Guyana. As part of this promise, in the last year, mmg+ has added more services, revamped the app to make it more user friendly while ensuring the continuity of its USSD feature which allows secure usage without internet connectivity.

Communications Officer for CACC, Allison Parker, in an invited comment said, "The CCAC recognizes the mmg+ service as one of the (Continued on page 14)

Disharmony in EPA Maritime, Petroleum...

From page 3 Act's plenary authority over environmental matters is complex with certain key elements of the Act and its regulations fundamental to the regulation of the oil and gas sector. In this regard, it was noted that the EPA Act prohibits any public authority from giving any development consent in any matter where an environmental authorization is required.

The EPA's issuance of an environmental authorization is also a sine qua non (essential condition) for the Minister's ability to issue a license under the PEPA and the President's ability to issue a prospecting or production license or letter of authority under the Maritime Zones Act. It is here that the consultants pointed out that the Minister's regulatory powers under the EPA Act, clearly overlap with those ascribed to the official who would be empowered to act under the Maritime Zones Act. They noted that while the Minister under the Maritime Zones Act is obligated to consult with the Minister with responsibility for the environment before making regulations, the potential for overlapping regulations is clear.

Additionally, it was highlighted that the regulatory powers of the EPA subject Minister also overlap with those of the subject Minister under the PEPA, and - unlike the Maritime Zones Act - there is no obligation for the Petroleum Minister to consult with the EPA

Minister before making regulations under the Petroleum Act. The IDB experts stated that as an example of this fact, the petroleum regulations include environment-related provisions that are quite ambiguous when compared with the standards set forth in the EPA Act and the applicable regulations subsequently made under it.

In this regard, they explained that the EPA Act and regulations made under it establish detailed principles and requirements for the protection of the environment that apply to any entity falling under the Act's jurisdiction, and an environmental permit issued under the EPA Act shall be subject to conditions which are reasonably necessary to protect human health and the environment. In addition, the IDB consultants said an environmental permit shall contain an implied condition that the developer shall have an obligation to use the most appropriate technology and to restore and rehabilitate the environment.

The EPA, they pointed out, is also prohibited from issuing an environmental permit unless it is satisfied that the developer can pay compensation for any loss or damage, which may arise from the project or breach of any term or condition of the environmental permit.

The IDB consultants said therefore, that there is significant overlap between the EPA Act, regulations and e n v i r o n m e n t a l authorizations issued under it, and the EPA's authority, on the one hand, and on the other hand the environment-

related authority of both the Oil and Gas Minister under the PEPA and Petroleum Regulations and the Minister under the Maritime Zones Act, in setting the requisite air-tight environmental standards applicable to petroleum prospecting and production.

The IDB consultant said, “A real risk of disharmony exists between these principles and standards of the EPA Act and the standards in the PEPA and Petroleum Regulations.

Specifically, the standard applicable to licensees under the PEPA is mere good oilfield practices, which is defined as all those things that are generally accepted as good, safe and efficient in the carrying on of prospecting for petroleum or, as the case may be, operations for the production of petroleum.”

The experts warned however that it is obvious to all observers that the term “good oilfield practices” may not equate to the principles established in the EPA Act and regulations made under it, as its ambiguity allows enough room for interpretation and legal challenge.

They also concluded that the overlapping functions in the laws with respect to the environment not only lead to possible confusion and unhelpful confusion among government entities but more importantly, the disharmonies standards for safe environmental practices “are potentially d i sastrous for Guyana, particularly (but not only) if an oil spill were to occur.”

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

What yuh gat in yuh waist?

An army medex was recently fatally stabbed at a party. Not long before that a baker was stabbed to death in his home.

A US-based Guyanese came home for a wedding and at the function met his demise after being stabbed.

Last month, a taxi driver was stabbed while transporting passengers. He did not recover from his stab wounds. And one day before Guyana’s Republic anniversary, two men were stabbed outside of a wedding house at No. 69 village.

There is not a week that goes by that someone is not fatally stabbed in Guyana.

Persons are regularly involved in verbal confrontation. Suddenly, one of the persons would draw a knife or an ice pick from his waist and stab another.

It appears as if persons are walking around the country with offensive weapons which can inflict a fatal stab wound on others. Some of these weapons are extremely deadly.

There is one called a Rambo knife which has sharp tip capable of penetrating deep when thrust into your body. The blade is jagged with numerous teeth. Imagine the damage that does when pulled out after being thrust into your body.

Years ago, if you had a cutlass, you could not walk around with either the faces or blade exposed.

It had to be concealed in a sleeve.

To this day sugar workers are required to have their machetes in a cloth or canvas sleeve.

Yet, we have hundreds of people having offensive knives and ice picks in the waist and no one appears to be arrested.

The laws of Guyana make it clear that these deadly

knives, ice picks and cutlasses are offensive weapons. The law states that an offensive weapon means any article (not just a firearm) made or adapted for use of causing injury to a person or so intended by the person having it. Section 12 of the Prevention of Crimes Act makes it an offence for someone without lawful authority or reasonable excuse to have in any public place an offensive weapon. The burden of establishing reasonable excuse resides with the person having the offensive weapon.

Yet, this particular law is not being adequately enforced. Not many knives and ice picks are being seized since many persons are still walking around with these weapons on their person and are most willing to use them durin g physical confrontations.

Last year, a man was charged for wielding a cutlass in public and for causing public terror.

He committed the offence, in of all places, in front of a Magistrates’ Court. He was jailed.

A man who allegedly chased a policeman with a cutlass was also slapped with a number of charges.

Persons also have been charged for committing robberies with offensive weapons but very few are placed in front of the court for having such weapons in a public place without lawful authority or reasonable excuse.

Yet, the law provides for persons to be charged for having an offensive weapon in a public place regardless of whether it is used for committing a crime or not.

Some hire car drivers, in the interest of self-defence, have taken to keeping

cutlasses under their car seats in the event that they are attacked by bandits.

It is not certain, however, if this constitutes a reasonable excuse for having the weapon but one understands the need for drivers to protect themselves.

To o m a n y o t h e r s , h o w e v e r, a r e w a l k i n g around with deadly blades and other sharp objects such as improvised icepicks and they are doing so with the aim of injuring others should they get into a fight or quarrel.

The police are not unaware of the laws. In 2019, the police visited the car and bus parks and provided information to persons involved in the transportation sector.

They told them about various offences, one of which was carrying offensive weapons such as knives and ice-picks.

A man was once charged for having a screwdriver on his person.

The police considered this as an offensive weapon, probably because the accused could not explain to what uses he was putting the instrument.

There needs to be a campaign against persons having these weapons on their person.

Once someone is found with an offensive weapon and no lawful authority can be produced for carrying such a weapon or no reasonable explanation can be provided, the person should be placed before the courts.

But perhaps the reason why the police are not moving with greater alacrity to arrest persons carrying weapons is because of the creative excuses which Guyanese are known to manufacture when their

Dem boys seh...

Rice price gone down, wheat price gone up!

Food prices increasing all over de world. De price of wheat skyrocketing. Yet, we farmers being told dat de world market price for rice drop and dem gat to accept less rather dan more.

Dem rice farmers decide fuh protest because dem feel dat duh is de only way de guvament gan listen to dem. But is nat de guvament dat gat to hear dem. Is dem millers. And some ah dem millers claim dem can’t offer more despite de guvament offering additional concessions.

Some ah dem farmers so desperate dat dem want de guvament fuh buy all dem paddy. But dem days lang gone. De guvament nah gat no rice mill much less fuh buy paddy fuh grind.

De rice sector grinding to a halt. A lot of feudal relations tekkin place. Some ah dem miller does advance money to farmer, which he gat to pay back when he mill he rice. And some ah dem miller therefore, can call de shots as to wah price de farmer gan get.

Some ah dem millers turn bankers. Dem is money lend-

ers and dem lending to dem farmer wah den obligated to sell dem paddy to de millers.

And de guvament nah see nothing wrang with dis and how it undermining de bargaining power of dem rice farmers and turning millers into unofficial banks.

Dem boys seh instead of trying fuh help dem millers, de guvament should investigate how wheat price gone up and rice price fall down.

If all ah dem food price rising, wah happen to we rice: goat eat am?

Talk half. Leff half.

backs are against a wall.

Many years ago, a policeman stopped a man with a very long knife. The knife was in the man’s waist and the policeman asked him what he was doing with the

weapon. He said he used it to cut mangoes.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

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Kaieteur News

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Friday March 18, 2022

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Philosophically, I could never be Hindu, Indian and Guyanese Today is Phagwah. Every year, it reminds me of my mom and the Hindu world I grew up into. But each year, Phagwah reminds me that we are born into this world to appreciate the essence of the human and human existence rests on the fulcrum of humanity.

People of different races, religions, cultures and countries, have one thing in common – the need to live and let others live. And life can only be guaranteed to each one of us if each one of us appreciate that humanity can only survive if others recognise it and in recognising it, culture, race, religion and nationality come second.

This was at the heart of the philosophy of Thomas Hobbes. I think Hobbes is the

second most misunderstood philosopher after Karl Marx.

People judge Hobbes by the shape of the government he advocated. But Hobbes's fear was that humanity would be lost if we didn't surrender ourselves to a powerful hand who could compel people to recognise and contribute to the existence of humanity.

Each year, when Phagwah comes around, I think of my mom and her world that I left behind. I grew up and nurture a displaced nature. I left Hindu culture behind for philosophy books. I married a Muslim woman and travelled the world where I found that whatever ethnicity people belong to, there are good people in this world who would give you half a loaf of their bread without

looking at the colour of your skin or asking your name.

Here is what David Hinds wrote about me in the online paper, Village Voice of March 6, “Prior to 2020, he declared he didn't care about race, that he was a non-racial person. Yet today, he is the leading proponent of Indian suffering and victimhood.” I still don't care about race. I am still nonracial. I make no apologies for writing about the historical and contemporary mistreatment of Indians by Guyanese society. I would do the same for any other victimised ethnicity.

What the writer failed to mention is that I opposed an Indian government for years and suffered in ways that o n l y Wa l t e r R o d n e y ' s sacrifice was greater. What

the writer left out was my scholarly paper on discrimination against African Guyanese, the contents of which no academic of Guyanese origin and Guyanese nationality has matched so far.

In many contexts, we are African, American, Indian, Christian, European, Muslim, Hindu, etc. In the context of philosophy, we step outside of our ethnicity, culture and religion and the dialectics shape us just as we shape the dialectics, to quote the great French philosopher, Jean Paul Sartre.

The dialectics remoulded the Kissoons siblings a long time ago.

Four of my siblings married African spouses.

Two of my sisters became Catholic. That is how nurture defeats nature. I have a healthy respect for the culture I was born into. But as someone born to Hindu parents, I refuse to see humanity with Indian lenses, with Hindu lenses, with Guyanese lenses.

I see the world through the telescope of philosophy

and will continue to do so. I believe the Russian invasion of Ukraine is wrong and Frederick Kissoon s h o u l d s t o p immediately. I believe people who they the American invasion of will never treat as equals. I Iraq was wrong. I believe the believe the rich West French bombing of Libya continues to give a pittance to was wrong. the Third World that they call I believe the Palestinian aid. The treatment of African people are and should be people fleeing war in given their own country right Ukraine by the Ukrainian and this minute.

Polish should be condemned I believe Prime Minister by every government and Modi of India is going to every human in this world. stain one of the great Back home, in Guyana, I countries of civilisation if he believe that from Burnham to is not stopped sooner than Granger, including all the later. I believe China and presidents in between failed Russia are autocratic to shape a future for this countries that do not allow country. I was actively for the spirit of freedom to involved in criticism of every roam. I believe the Cuban one of those presidencies. government has mistreated Those presidents were the Cuban people for over African and Indian with one half a century. I abhour the being Caucasian. Race never horrible mistreatment of ever entered the hallways of African-Americans in the my psyche over those long US, a degeneracy that has decades. It never will. been going on for centuries (The views expressed in and continues with energy this article are those of the and barefacedness in the 21st author and do not century. necessarily reflect the I believe the West has opinions of this newspaper.) contempt for Third World

Five patients still in COVID-19 ICU, six new infections W

i t h n o reported COVID-19 fatality, the Ministry of Health on Thursday revealed that five persons are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit receiving treatment.

The Ministry, having recorded 248 cases for the month so far, stated that within the last 24-hour period they have recorded six new infections taking the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 63,175.

In its latest dashboard, the health ministry reported14 persons are now in institutional isolation, 138 are in home isolation and 11 are in institutional quarantine. Additionally, 20 persons have recovered from the virus within the last 24hour period taking the total number of recovery to 61,792.

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

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Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

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APA calls on Govt. to give more support to Venezuelan migrants T

he Amerindian P e o p l e s Association (APA) has called on the relevant authorities to provide increased humanitarian support to the Wa r r a u m i g r a n t s f r o m Venezuela who continue to seek betterment in Guyana and to address their needs as Indigenous Peoples with human rights.

The APA said its call follows the recent influx of migrants experienced by the Region 2 community of Kabakaburi and their forced relocation that followed just days after, even though the indigenous community began to support and have since indicated their willingness to support them.

According to the APA, the migrants reportedly paddled for 8 to 10 days before arriving in Kabakaburi, where it was evident that they lacked food, clothing, and in some cases, medical attention. “Their decision to undertake such a

Venezuelan refugees at a landing in Charity. lengthy and dangerous journey speaks to the desperation of people whose lives are severely impacted by the ongoing economic crisis in Venezuela and the COVID-19 pandemic,” the indigenous group said in its statement.

“The APA understands that the camp in Khan Hill, Mabaruma District, where these Warraus families have

settled, has become overwhelmed. As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, such living conditions will only increase the likelihood of disease transmissions among the population, including COVID-19. Several of the migrants who were relocated remain in contact with residents of Kabakaburi.

These migrants continue to c a l l , b e g g i n g t o r e t u r n f o r a n o p p o r

tunity to improve their living conditions.”

The APA said as an Indigenous rights-based organisation, “we believe that Indigenous Peoples seeking refuge in Guyana from the ongoing crisis in Venezuela must be given support specific to their needs. Better coordination is needed to include short, medium and long term responses. Guyana has a commitment under international conventions to provide humanitarian support.”

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e organisation said, where village councils or villages extend their humanitarian arm, the government should support them. “There are pregnant women, children and the elderly who are all caught in this crisis. As a nation, Guyana must ensure that relevant and effective support is provided to all who are seeking it and to all who are lending support.

It should not be lost that the Warraus are part of the demographics of Guyana and Venezuela and that only an international boundary separates the families. They have also contributed significantly to Guyana's rich cultural and historical heritage including the shell mounds found in North-

western Guyana, the origins of the canoe in Haimaracabra, Moruca and the planting of cassava in the Aruka River basin. These brothers and sisters are at home. They ought to be treated with dignity.”

Kaieteur News reported last week that the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force escorted a number of Venezuelans out of Region Two. According to reports reaching Kaieteur News, over one hundred Indigenous Venezuelan nationals were found within the Arpiaco area in the Upper Pomeroon River. The one hundred twenty-five persons escorted out of the region, included men women and children.

Reports suggested that the refugee group has been in the Pomeroon for almost an entire week. According to sources familiar with the matter, the group canoed from the river mouth, all the way to the Kabakaburi community; a 72km journey.

Kaieteur News understands that the indigenous group made several stops along the way vandalising several farms in the process. One farmer who was a victim told this publication that her entire farm was destroyed by the Venezuelans. “My son sprayed the oranges on the

farm recently, when he gone back to the farm all the oranges gone from the tree.

The people pick out all meh coconuts, then they chop down the tree, they destroyed meh plantains and just l e a v e . ” Kaieteur News was told that the last stop for the group was the Kabakaburi area, Upper Pomeroon. The community's Toshao, Monty Simon, reportedly observed the refugees and recommended that they clear and occupy a piece of land in the Arpiaco area out of pity.

The Regional Democratic Council also played a part in granting aid to the refugees, as they delivered food hampers and tarn poling to them. In an invited comment, the Regional Chairman Vilma De Silva said, “When we learnt that there was a large number of migrants in the area we took some food hampers to support them, because there were even children amongst them and there were concerns that they might be malnourished… they said they wanted a Tarn poling to help set up camp and so we tried to assist there as well.”

The Regional Chairman explained that it was difficult to communicate with the group, as most of them spoke the native Warrau language.

The few that spoke Spanish, however, said that they had left Region One, and that there were more of them on the way.

Their stay was to be short, however, the police was soon contacted.

According to Senior Woman Superintendent of Police, Denise Griffith, a farmer had reported that persons were trespassing on his farm, and he needed them gone. A joint task force consisting of the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard Unit was subsequently mobilized.

Venezuelan migrants being escorted by members of the joint services.

Kaieteur News

Friday March 18, 2022

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Tax credit remains viable option than oil and gas tax giveaways

By Zena Henry

T

ax Credit remains a viable option when dealing with operators in Guyana's oil and gas sector instead of the tax exemptions that are causing the country to lose billions of dollars in the scenario i n v o l v i n g o i l m a j o r, ExxonMobil and its subsidiaries.

As it stands, Guyana has lost some $137B in foregone revenues for the year 2020 alone; a sum the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) says represents 62.75 percent of total monies collected by the Authority for that period.

Economist, Ramon Gaskin is adamant therefore that Guyana must review its tax provisions to prevent this sum from being significantly more given future oil production development.

Gaskin told the newspaper that, “tax credits are very much viable as opposed to tax exemptions since the taxes to be paid would be deducted from taxes owed.” Gaskin explained that whereas the tax credit would allow Guyana to actually receive payments, it would also benefit the company paying since they would not have to

pay the total taxes owed based on credit incurred.

Tax credit, by economic definition, is an amount of money that taxpayers subtract directly from the taxes they owe.

It was explained that unlike tax deductions, which lowers the amount of taxable income, tax credits reduce the actual amount of tax owed.

The tax credit mechanism was further described as a dollar for dollar reduction of the income tax owed, and to be calculated based on the agreements made between a company and the relevant tax agency.

The agreement would determine how the company receives credit based on its operations. This credit, given a dollar value, is then deducted from the amount of taxes owed.

Gaskin told Kaieteur News that where the exemptions are concerned as in the case of Guyana, ExxonMobil and its subsidiaries, Hess Corporation and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, the oil companies receive the tax break upfront.

“These tax breaks, these

Tax credit is said to be an avenue preferred over tax exemptions.

giveaways, they are upfront.

They (oil companies) are getting these exemptions before they even make a profit.”

The economist, like many other observers, has expressed concerns as to why the Government of Guyana would sign a “sweetheart” deal that causes Guyana to get less than what is due. He said that the oil companies have been given the option of not paying taxes even if a profit is made by the oil company, “so whether they make a profit or not, they (oil company) have no taxes to pay.”

Gaskin said that providing tax credit to foreign companies is a method used by big countries

around the world and suggested that moves should be made to correct the current situation.

Contrary to Guyana's Petroleum Law, the current oil contract between Guyana and Exxon states that “…no tax, value-added tax, excise tax, duty, fee, charge or other impost shall be levied at the date hereof or from time to time thereafter on the Contractor or Affiliated Companies, in respect of income derived from Petroleum Operations or in respect of any property held, transactions undertaken or activities performed for any purpose authorised or contemplated hereunder…”

Specific to income tax, it is agreed between Guyana

and Exxon that, “ (a) a sum equivalent to the tax assessed, pursuant to Article 15.2 and 15.3, will be paid by the Minister to the Commissioner General, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on behalf of the Contractor and that the amount of each sum will be considered income of the Contractor; and (b) that the appropriate portion of the Government's share of Profit Oil delivered in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement shall be accepted by the Minister as payment in full by the Contractor of Contractor's share of each of the following levies, whatsoever the applicable rate of such levies may be, which the Minister shall then pay on behalf of the Contractor under Article 15.4 (a) to the Commissioner General, Guyana Revenue Authority or such successor authority.”

It says further that the Contractor's share of the income taxes imposed by the laws of Guyana, including, but not limited to, income tax imposed by the income Tax Act and corporation tax imposed by the Corporation Tax Act and payable at the date hereof, or from time to

time thereafter, and any other levy or charge on income or profits which may become payable from time to time under any laws, acts, statutes, regulation or orders by the Government or any other similar charge imposed and payable in respect of Petroleum Operations at the date hereof, or from time to time hereafter except charges of the type specified in Article 15.1 (a-b) returns to be submitted by the Minister to the Commissioner General, at Guyana Revenue Authority so the Minister can pay income tax on behalf of the Contractor as provided under Article 15.4 (a).

On such returns, the Minister will note that he paid the income taxes on behalf of Exxon, so that the Commissioner General at GRA could properly prepare the receipts required under the Article. The Minister will also furnish Exxon with proper tax certificates in its name as evidence of the payment made.

Although Exxon is not obligated to make the mentioned tax payments to Guyana, it should be noted that under US law, US-based companies like ExxonMobil (Continued on page 14)

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Kaieteur News

MMG+ seen as 'game...

From page 8 FinTech services that has reshaped the way consumers engage in financial transactions".

Themed "F a i r D i g i t a l F i n a n c e , " t h i s Wo r l d C o n s u m e r R i g h t s D a y 2022 saw panelists from Mobile Money Guyana (mmg+), C r e d i t I n f o G u y a n a , the Bank of

Guyana (BOG), and the Guyana Association of Bankers (GABI).

The future of mmg+ will see more partnerships and collaboration to ensure wider, more inclusive access and greater innovation as the product evolves and allow for greater transaction independence.

Friday March 18, 2022

Tax credit remains viable...

From page 13 and Hess must file tax returns.

The bonus however is that taxes paid to Guyana, by Guyana on behalf of Exxon are deductible under the U.S. tax code.

In the Auditor General's report, GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia said that significant increase in exemptions is expected in

the coming years owing to the burgeoning Oil and Gas sector, and unless policy c h a n g e s a r e e ff e c t e d , exemptions are expected to grow exponentially as the industry develops and matures, and in particular, if the Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) for other blocks have similar provisions for (tax) exemptions.

The Commissioner in the report stated his preference for the removal of the concession regime and having it replaced with a system of tax credits, as practiced in the developed nations, thereby allowing for improved compliance with the tax laws and the terms of Investment Development Agreements (IDAs).

Kaieteur News

Friday March 18, 2022

DPP Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC was accompanied by Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn and officers during the outreach.

DPP on warpath against drug abuse, illicit sex in Rupununi Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, has implored residents particularly teenagers of the North Rupununi Region Nine, to say "no" to illicit drugs, consumption of alcohol and early teenage sexual relations.

The DPP made this charge during a Community Outreach to the region's northern communities of Annai Central, The Bina Hill Institute at Kwatamang , Aranaputa and Karasabai over the past weekend. The DPP's charge to the secondary school students in particular, came against the background of an increased number of police files for sexual offences and the use of illicit drugs received at the DPP's Chambers for legal advice over the past three years.

Mrs. Ali-Hack, accompanied by Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, attended the meetings along with a team from his Ministry including Mr. Daniel Griffith of the Traffic in Persons (TIPS) Committee. During their several community meetings, the DPP and Minister Benn addressed students and residents on a range of criminal offences from the more serious criminal indictable offences of murders and rapes to causing death by dangerous driving, trafficking in persons, the use of

marijuana, simple larceny, break and enter and larceny and other social ills affecting the northern communities.

Both the DPP and Minister Benn implored the students to focus on their own personal development through their education and to "aim for the top.”

“Take up your education and aim at qualifying yourselves to specialize in whatever profession you chose. Take advantage of the opportunities available. Do everything within your power to prevent a police file from reaching the desk of the DPP, who has the difficult task of deciding whether to charge or not to charge," Minister Benn added.

Minister Benn encouraged the students to get involved in sporting activities and promised to advocate for sports gears and equipment on their behalf from the subject ministry.

Mrs. Ali-Hack advocated for the reactivation of Toshaos to be trained to deal with the simple offences such as larceny and disorderly behaviour at the Village Council level.

She reiterated that while the Toshaos have limited powers to deal with the lesser serious criminal offences, the more serious crimes must be dealt with by the police.

"We give them the training to deal with such matters and then the offenders are to be

counselled. And for the more serious offences like the murders, manslaughters, rapes, and assaults, will be dealt with by the police."

She explained that such a system will help to ease the congestion within the criminal justice system.

DPP Ali-Hack admonished the residents to make good use of their lands, "You don't have the types of jobs we have in Georgetown, so you should have more activities like farming so as to occupy your time and not get into community criminal offences. Take the available fruits, make jams, jellies, and fruit juices, take the produce to Lethem to be marketed, work with the Regional Chairman and New Guyana Marketing Corporation to market your products.

Meanwhile Mr. Griffith and his TIPS team engaged the residents briefly on the "signs and red flags" of human trafficking.

Residents were urged to make use of the resources to develop themselves by utilizing the resources for economic gains.

Regional Chairman Mr. Brian Allicock and Police Commander Raphael Rose who attended the community meetings encouraged the residents to form and maintain good police community relations with the police ranks stationed at all the various police stations in the Region.

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Friday March 18, 2022

Customs officer gets bail for shooting horse cart men

...as GRA launches probe to determine compliance with firearm policy

A

n enforcement officer attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) was on Thursday granted $200,000 bail for unlawfully shooting two horse cart men

on Sunday at Kersaint Park, La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The defendant identified as David Ali of 31 Kersaint Park, LBI, appeared before Magistrate Rushelle

Liverpool at the Sparendaam Magistrate's Court and was charged with two counts of discharging a loaded firearm with intent committed on Anil Persaud and Reygon Gonzales.

He pleaded not guilty to both counts and was granted $100,000 bail for each count.

He is expected to return to court on March 20, 2022.

Meanwhile Ali's employer, GRA, stated yesterday that it has commenced an internal probe into the shooting incident as well.

GRA pointed out that it has a firearm policy which requires all of its officers must lodge their weapons at the nearest police station after completing any exercises or operations on behalf of the state agency. It is at the moment unclear if Ali has been complying with this policy.

However, GRA stated that any act that is not in accordance with the country's laws and regulations will be (Continued on page 28)

Charged for shooting two horse cart operators, David Ali, a GRA Customs Officer.

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Friday March 18, 2022

Cyclist killed in Mandela Avenue crash

A fifty-seven-year-old pedal cyclist was on Wednesday night killed when his bicycle collided with a car on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.

The dead pedal cyclist is Lyndon Austin of Go Slow Fourth Avenue Tucville, Georgetown.According to (Continued on page 25)

Lyndon Austin’s bicycle.

The car that struck Lyndon Austin.

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from

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Govt. set to cut powers of DPP ...following landmark ruling by CCJ in Marcus Bisram case

By Rehanna Ramsay

T

he recent ruling by the Caribbean Court Justice (CCJ) has set the stage for Guyana to amend its laws to curb the excessive power of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

This is according to Attorney General and Legal A ff a i r s M i n i s t e r, A n i l Nandlall, SC. During a recent airing of his Facebook commentary “Issues in the News,” Nandlall spoke of the court ruling.

He noted that given the finding of the Court that the DPP has powers that authorises a non-judicial organ to instruct a judiciary or a component of the judiciary, and that power transgresses the doctrine of separation of powers, and is unconstitutional since the judiciary as a whole is independent.

The CCJ on Tuesday ruled in the case where the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali Hack, SC, had ordered that GuyaneseAmerican businessman Marcus Bisram be committed to face a trial in the High Court for murder despite a judicial ruling that there was not enough evidence against him.

At the CCJ, Bisram's a t t o r n e y, D a r s h a n Ramdhanie, QC, had asked the CCJ to strike down Section 72 (1) and (2) (ii) (b) of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act which empowers the DPP, to, inter alia, direct a Magistrate to commit an accused person to stand trial in circumstances where the said Magistrate, after conducting a P r e l i m i n a r y I n q u i r y, discharged that accused person.

In the decision, the CCJ

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall SC.

Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali Hack, SC. made the order that “Until the National Assembly makes suitable provision Section 72 is modified to excise those provisions permitting the DPP to direct the Magistrate.

In lieu thereof, a DPP aggrieved at the discharge of an accused by a Magistrate after the whole of the proceedings at a PI, may apply ex parte to a judge of the Supreme Court for an order that the discharged person be arrested and committed, if the judge is of the view that the material placed before the judge justified such a course of action.”

In his commentary, the AG said, “That provision cannot withstand constitutionality, and the CCJ struck it down and basically has indicated to us in Guyana that we will have to go to Parliament to modify or amend that provision.

They are suggesting that power be transferred from the DPP and be resided in a judge of the High Court.

To this end, Nandlall said Government will be moving to amend the law.

“It's a very progressive ruling, and we will have to

amend the law to suit, since that is the highest court of our judiciary and there is no appeal beyond that,” the AG noted.

Bisram was extradited from the United States to Guyana in 2019 to face the murder charge, following a prolonged fight in the US courts to block the extradition.

The US–based Guyanese was facing a murder charge for the death of Berbice carpenter, Faiyaz Narinedatt.

He was discharged twice by a Magistrate for the murder but w a s r e c h a rg e d a t t h e directions of the DPP. The matter reached the Guyana Court of Appeal last year and after a decision that he must face a complete trial for the murder, Bisram and his team of lawyers took the matter to the CCJ. In delivering the ruling on Tuesday, the President of the CCJ, Justice Adrian Saunders upheld Ramdhanie's contentions and allowed the appeal.

The CCJ also ordered that the decision made by the Magistrate to dismiss the murder charge against Bisram be restored.

Cyclist killed in Mandela...

From page 20 police reports, Asif Mohamed, 32, of Lot 12 Vryheid's Lust Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara was the driver of motorcar PAC 1350 that struck Austin.

It was reported that Mohamed and Austin were both proceeding north along the western carriageway of the Avenue when Austin

allegedly attempted to cross the road and got in the pathway of the car.

As a result, the front of the car struck Austin, causing him to be thrown onto the bonnet and windscreen o f t h e car.

He was flung onto the paved road and suffered injuries about his body.

Mohamed picked up an unconscious A u s t i n and

took him to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was treated for his injuries.

Austin did not regain consciousness and succumbed about an hour later.

His body is currently being stored at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home awaiting a post mortem examination.

I t w a s ordered that Bisram not be committed for trial only on the evidence led before the Magistrate.

Justice Saunders emphasised nonetheless, that nothing prevents the DPP from re-arresting and charging Bisram if fresh evidence is found. “The Court also found that it would be unjust, in all of the circumstances, for Bisram to be made to answer any charge of murder in this case on the same evidence as was presented to the Magistrate.

H o w e v e r, b e c a u s e Bisram, at least in terms of the law, was never placed in jeopardy, nothing prevents the DPP from having him re-

arrested and charged again if fresh evidence was obtained linking him to the alleged murder,” the CCJ judge said in the decision.

The CCJ also declared that Section 72 of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act violates the separation of powers and is also inconsistent with articles 122A and 144 of the Constitution.

The CCJ noted that if the DPP wants to instruct a Magistrate in the future to commit any accused person to stand trial , the DPP will have to move to the High Court first.

On June 1, last, the Court of Appeal handed down a ruling in favour of the DPP

who had asked that the decision by High Court Judge, Simone MorrisRamlall, be overturned.

Morris-Ramlall had acquitted Bisram of the murder charge despite orders by the DPP that he be committed to face a murder trial in the High Court.

Bisram had previously faced a preliminary trial in the Magistrates' Court.

Magistrate Renita Singh, after a preliminary inquiry, had ruled that there was insufficient evidence to send him to the High Court for trial.

The DPP had, however, invoked her powers under Section 72 (1) and (2) (ii) (b) of the Criminal Law Offences Act, and directed the Magistrate to reopen the inquiry with a view of committing Bisram to the High Court for trial.

Her directions were complied with but Bisram challenged the DPP's right to instruct the Magistrate. In a subsequent decision Justice Morris-Ramlall quashed the DPP's orders. Justice MorrisRamlall also ordered that the DPP be prohibited from instituting the charges against Bisram again.

It is this order that the DPP challenged in the Appeal Court. Bisram t h r o u g h h i s a t t o r n e y, Arudranauth Gossai, had cross-appealed challenging the DPP's right to order the Magistrate.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 26

Friday March 18, 2022

to all Guyanese Dharmic Sabha says Phagwah is a festival that encourages love and unity As we celebrate Phagwah, Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha extends joyous and blissful Phagwah greetings to all Guyanese. As Guyanese look forward to celebrating this loved festival after a two-year hiatus, we urge that celebrations be respectful

and in line with its deeper religious meaning.

This Hindu festival which is widely celebrated occurs annually in the Hindu Month of Phalgunand has a spiritual dimension that encourages devotion and implicit faith in Bhagwan, and reminds us to let our

divine qualities emerge in the face of every situation.

As Hindus attend mandirs on Phagwah Day and Holika Dahan, the messages about the story of Prahalad reminds us to always stand on the side of righteousness and divest ourselves of negative energies,

tendencies and qualities that impede our spiritual connection and growth, and act as barriers to togetherness.

Phagwah is an ancient Hindu festival on our national calendar which has been embraced by Guyanese and its messages resonates

with all people; the triumph of good over evil and removal of all negativities and vices, equality and brotherhood, the promotion of love and unity. It is a unifying and inclusive festival that encourages people of all walks of life to participate and celebrate in togetherness.

This festival which heralds the advent of the season of spring is resplendent with the colours of nature's blooms, as celebrants smear each other with vivid hues. It reminds us of the concept of “VasudhaivKutumbakham”; the world is one family.

Proletariat in nature, the festival removes all barriers and differences, as covered in colour people are unrecognizable emphasizing that there should be no differences on this day.

Holi comes from the Sanskrit word “hola' meaning grains, reminding us of the festival's linkage to agriculture and a bountiful harvest. It also precedes the Hindu New Year. Phagwah is a beautiful festival and we must capture the essence of the celebration by fostering love, understanding, unity,

harmony, steadfastness, fearlessness and righteousness as we engage in the gaiety and festivities this festival brings.

As you enjoy the festival and all of its dimensions today, we urge that the land be converted into a spiritual garden from which we must imbibe positive and good vibes. There must be no primitive behaviour nor any disrespect on this day, rather we must embrace each other in the spirit of friendship, colouring each other to illustrate the splendor of nature. As Prahalad did, let us always fight against i n j u s t i c e a n d unrighteousness so that all people can prosper in love, peace and unity.

Holi Utsav will be hosted by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha today at the EVEREST CRICKET CLUB GROUND. Gates open at 4:00pm and admission is free. Come and enjoy chowtaal, songs and dances representing the festival of Phagwah. No alcohol allowed. All are i n v i t e d !

HolikeShubhKaamnaye from the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha to all!

GAWU

We f e e l t h a t discriminating practices, whatever their form will not serve to promote a national environment of trust and confidence.

At this time, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends to the Hindu communities and Guyanese at large sincere greetings on the occasion of Phagwah 2022. The festival which is among our country's most colourful is embraced by Guyanese from all walks of life. It is yet another observance that adds to the rich cultural tapestry of our beloved nation and multicultural society.

The story of Phagwah or Holi is one now that is fairly well-known among Guyanese. It speaks of the devoutness of Prahalad and the intrigues formed against him. It is yet another reminder of the triumph of good over evil and despite adversities and challenges, our perseverance will bring us to our ultimate goals. Holi also signifies the generation of nature, the fertility of the land, and the bountiful harvest which it provides to mankind. Phagwah's social

and cultural significance can be seen in the way that it has broken down the barriers of separation, suspicion, and insecurity in society. It is a festival of social cohesion that enriches the country's multicultural character.

GAWU realizes that the messages of unity, goodwill and optimism exchanged during such Festivals as Christmas, Mashramani, Eid and Phagwah are positive contributions to instill hope and productive relationships between our people and build strong foundations for our future generations. In this regard, we feel that discriminating practices, whatever their form and a callous attitude to sections of the population will not serve to promote a national environment of trust, confidence and genuine togetherness so vital to peace and a healthy economy. May the understanding associated

by Festivals like Holi lead to a united and better country where our people of different faiths will take pride in our progress and developments knowing that a secure future is the aspiration we all cherish. Happy Holi 2022 from GAWU!

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 27

Contractors bid lower than Govt. engineer's $34M for health center All 17 contractors who submitted bids for the construction of a health center at Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme in Region Six tendered lower than the governments engineer's estimate of $34 million.

The project is being undertaken by the Ministry of Local Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development- Regional Democratic Council, Region Six Construction of Health Center at Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme.

Government and Regional Development.

At the opening of tenders on Wednesday, at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office, it was revealed that to execute the works it would cost $34,203,450.

Rehabilitation of Number 4 Dam Albion to Chesney (to Fisheries Complex).

During tenders that day, bids were opened for a number of road projects in different areas of the region. Also the region is looking at refurbishing the oxygen system at the New Amsterdam Hospital, this project is pegged at $40 million.

Below are the companies and their bids: Construction of new block at St. Therese's Primary School.

Rehabilitation of street in Budhan Scheme, West Canjie.

Rehabilitation of Suma Street, Number 36 Village.

Refurbishing of oxygen system at the New Amsterdam Hospital.

Extension of Doctor's quarters at New Amsterdam.

Rehabilitation of ballfield street, Old Chesney.

Supply and delivery of two thirty-seater buses.

Rehabilitation of grant 1806 main access road.

PAGE 28

WANTED Need one female shop assistant to work in the interior between the ages 20-30yrs old.Call:698-5526/689-4461.

Masoner& Labourers. Please contact Damion on 681-9554.

Riders must have valid license for Bike & Car. Contact:600-4497.

VEHICLE FOR SALE

PROPERTY FOR SALE

One Honda CRV,fully loaded immaculate condition, low mileage 3.3M negotiable.

Contact:649-0956.

JFWW Network Real Estate houselots for sale gated community,$4 Mil GYD zero down payment.Messageto whatsapp: 622-1957.

Pitbull,Minibus-BAB series AC,camera's fully loaded,14 seater.Great condition 3.2 Mil neg.Contact:698-6205.

Transportedproperty Montrose, E.C.D, 6 million down, 3 years to pay balance.

No Bank. Call: 661-5099

Massey Ferguson 283 $2.5M, Massey Ferguson 165$1.7M,Massey Ferguson 135 $1.1M,Pick-up trucks: Ford F150 $900.000, Ford Ranger $800.000#682-5230/ 615-4414.

Great Diamond,Tuschen, Onderneeming, Haslington, Eccles & more.Contact:2278274/223-6035/673-6210.

Massages and Rehabilitation physical preparation personalized training. Bachelor in Physical Education and Sports: Kirenia Ballard Bell.Call:669-6910.

Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design,Advertisements, Wedding decorations & Elderly grooming: Hair,Nail etc.Tel:626-7040.

48 acres of transported rice land situated in Goodhope, East Bank Essequibo. Contact:1-917-807-6424/688-9077.

ENTERTAINMENT

TO LET Aracari Hotel,WBD(Ver sailles-between Harbor Bridge and Vreed-en-Hoop) All amenities,breakfast included from $45US,264-29469.

EDUCATION Music Lessons - Individual Tuition, Learn to play the Piano & Trumpet, learn to read & write music. Contact:6503686.

Restaurant-WBD,(Aracari Resort,between Harbor Bridge and Vreed-en-Hoop, turn key business. Tel:2642946,626-5290.

Female domestic maid wanted for housekeeping : $3500 daily,male Labourer: $4000, skilled labourer:$5000 daily Vreed-En-Hoop #682-5230/ 615-4414.

Maid to cook and clean for East Bank area. Call:615-9132 One clerk for TSI Eccles office English & Maths, grade 1 or 2.Call:615-9132 or email application to techserigy @ yahoo.com Male cleaner.Call:642-9823.

One female cleaner.Apply at:Lens 136 Sheriff St C/Ville Georgetown.Contact:2272486 or 227-1511.

One salesman,able bodied porters.Experience in writing bills,stocktaking & cashing.

Keyfood Trading, Mc Doom village.

Security to work with mining firm in G/Twon.Contact:6322234.

1-40 acres land@Linden Highway.Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251.

FOR RENT

Two(2) housekeepers to work at guest house,age 25-45 shift system.Call:668-0306/6557405.

2 professional nail technician & one make up artist,location Grove E.B.D.Call:652-5800.

6-Cement Mixer Truck,1-New loader.Contact650-0402/6329929 or 260-4115.

Commercial foreign used convection oven, 240V. Call: 681-1312.

One(1) housekeeper/nanny to work 4 days weekly. Call: 624-8597.

VACANCY

FOR SALE

2-1 acres land@ blankenbu rg W.C.D. Contact:650-0402/ 652-0251.

Person to cook and manage restaurant in Charity Esse quibo.Accomodation provided, attractive salary. Call: 223-5273/223-5274.

In Elaine’s Ville,next to the Providence Stadium, E.B.D, size (100x135) gated community. Contact Sarge:659-4333.

Swimming Pool family fun & Picnic-Crystal Clear pool, kids & adult sections. Safe Aracari Resort.Tel:264-29469.

Prime Business Spot, located at Zeelugt public road,3 storey building & 1/2 acres at Parika.Call:650-0402/6520251/260-4115.

One male able bodied clerk.Tel:225-2313/226-1497.

Wanted skilled carpenters, masons & labourers to work in GeorgeTown & Linden.

Contact: 657-5800 / 615-7526/ 602-9469/ 660-6385.

LAND FOR SALE SERVICES

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

One experienced Welder/ Fabricator and one female cashier.Call:231-1408/6429191.

Accounts Clerk, Counter Clerk, Graphic Artist, I.T personnel, 5 Subjects & a maid. Apply at Trophy Stall Bourda.

Male Clerical Asst,age 25-30 yrs.Must have Secondary Education & license is required. Tel:225-8131/2236488.

Customs officer gets bail for shooting horse...

From page 16 appropriately dealt with.

Based on reports, Ali was at his home when he shot the two horse cart operators.

The men according to police investigations were harvest-

VACANCY Driver/Expediter to work with Hardware store. Contact Seema on 226-9416.

For auto body work men and apprentice. Contact: 6421070.

Pitmen,Serviceman,Hauler Operator and Welder for interior location.Applicants must be experienced. Call:2312250.

ing grass for their horses from an empty lot located next to Ali's home.

Kaieteur News learnt that the victims alleged that they suddenly heard loud explosions and suddenly noticed Ali shooting at them. They reportedly attempted to run but fell after feeling numbing pain in their legs.

Police related that both of the victims were shot to their legs and were taken to the

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). One was treated and sent away while the other was hospitalised.

Ali told investigators that he had chosen to shoot the men because he thought they were bandits.

He claimed that one of the men attempted to enter his premises and that he had shot in the air once before shooting at the men.

Kaieteur News

Friday March 18, 2022

PAGE 29

Consumers call for protection against ...bemoan hiked prices for price gouging basic food, other items The high cost of living might be heavy on the minds of consumers, but so too is the actions of some unscrupulous business owners who are engaged in price gouging.

Some persons who spoke with the Kaieteur Newspaper are calling on the relevant authorities to address the matter as they say the ongoing practice is adding unwanted strain on the already severe financial situation. Kaieteur News was told that while the economic changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic has been recognised, it appears that some shopkeepers are taking prices even higher now, owing to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Paula Hutson, a 45-yearold mother of two told the Kaieteur News that she believes something must be done to ease the strain that persons like her is feeling.

The housewife told Kaieteur News that since her husband is the sole breadwinner for the home, they are facing hardships as a result of increased prices for goods.

“What I don't understand is how come one place selling for one price and the next place selling two and three

times.” Hutson said she is originally from Port Kaituma, but moved to Georgetown after she lost her home to a fire.

Since then, the woman said, things have been challenging for her family who depends heavily on financial support from overseas. “It's been hard, ”Hutson said, “cause during the pandemic we had to wait on money from outside.” The woman said however, that even with her husband back out to work, the price of goods continues to present a challenge in catering for the home.

Another consumer, who gave the name Shawn, also complained about the increase in the cost of goods.

The man said that he too understands that food prices have increased globally but argued, “…that does not mean that we can't get some help.” “So what if the price keeps going up, then what gone happen, we gone can't eat.”

Shawn told the newspaper that he knows some vendors are deliberately increasing their prices higher than it should be because, “if ya go to one shop, ya might get some greens for one price and the

same greens, but a smaller amount for the same price or something more. Same way ya go in the shop, one telling ya $120, $140 fuh something and another shop telling ya $200 and $300 for de same thing.” “I really think they should do something about it,” the man urged.

Kaieteur News was told however, that the pricing of goods is a decision made by vendors.

The Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCCA) told the publication that while some persons may believe that the body has regulatory powers to deal with matters of price gouging, the commission does not perform that oversight role.

The agency's Public Relations Officer, Alison Parker, told the Kaieteur News, “we (CCCA) have no jurisdiction over pricing.”

She said that the agency is still being approached by persons expressing concerns about the significant increase in goods, 'but we do not regulate prices.”

Parker said that the CCCA, although not from a legal standpoint, continues nonetheless to ask the providers of goods and services to do the “moral”

thing and not engage in the act of price gouging.

The CCCA had cause to put out a missive just as Guyana had recorded its first COVID-19 case back in 2020 calling on businesses to stop price gouging.

The Private Sector Commission had also released a statement condemning the significant increases that businesses had placed on high demand products such as face masks, hand sanitisers and cold medication among others.

The CCCA said at the time that it was in receipt of credible information regarding price gouging on items needed to prevent the spread of the virus. The CCCA said that while it has no legal standing to regulate market prices, it was appealing to the moral standing of suppliers to not take advantage of consumers with exorbitant prices. “We again appeal to suppliers to put your countrymen/people over excessive profit,” the commission had said.

Cooking gas rose from $3,700 to $5,700.

The PSC said too that, “As the threat of the coronavirus induces panic among the general populace, the Private Sector Commission is dismayed at recent claims reported in the media of businesses inflating the prices of necessities needed to combat the coronavirus disease.”

Citizens at the height of

COVID-19 fears were paying hundreds and even thousands of dollars more for products costing significantly less. Today, basic foods like oil, flour and sugar has increased. Fruits, vegetables and meats, cooking gas, shipping cost and the price of many other services have risen significantly.

PAGE 30

Kaieteur News

Friday March 18, 2022

Volodímir Zelenski

Friday March 18, 2022

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Rafa smashes Opelka, Kecmanovic shocks Berrettini at Indian Wells (Reuters) - Rafa Nadal toppled big-serving American Reilly Opelka 7-6(3) 7-6(5) to remain perfect on the year while unseeded Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic stunned world number six Matteo Berrettini 6-3 6-7(5) 6-4 in the fourth round of Indian Wells on Wednesday.

Despite Opelka’s serve reaching speeds as high as 147 miles per hour, the Spaniard was the better in their rallies, dictating points and eliciting errors from the baseline.

After a high-level first set, Nadal wobbled in the second, playing a sloppy service game to go down a break at 3-

2 and he tapped his head in frustration during the changeover.

But he regained his focus, breaking back to level at 4-4 and remaining perfect on serve in the second tiebreaker.

He sealed the victory with a beautifully constructed point that pushed Opelka off the court. “He is a very difficult player to play against with his huge serve and huge forehand, but I think I played my best match of the tournament so far,” Nadal said in an oncourt interview.

Nadal stood as far back off the baseline as the court would allow on his returns

and often had to hit them at head height or higher.

“It’s not only about the speed. The spin is also difficult to read. Sometimes it’s coming with topspin, sometimes with slice. “It’s a great victory for me against one of the toughest opponents I can play and I’m very happy. I can’t thank you enough for all the positive energy that I receive every single day here.” Nadal is now 18-0 to start the season and if he can win his fourth title in the California desert, he will move into a tie with Novak Djokovic for the most Masters 1000 titles with 37. To do so, the 21-time

Friday March 18, 2022 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Trust that you have all the facts you need today, Aries.

You should be feeling quite good, emotionally. Use this self-confidence to make great strides in whatever you want to accomplish.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You may find yourself emotionally challenged today by a strong force demanding your attention, Taurus.

Your hyperawareness to every situation might be driving you a bit crazy.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You have the opportunity to do some intense self-healing today, Gemini, so you communicate more directly with your core self without the distractions of other people.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) The energy of the day is electric, and you could find yourself bouncing from task to task and person to person, Libra. Things are apt to happen when you least expect them, so be prepared for surprises.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You might feel as if your heart is playing tricks on you today, Scorpio. Perhaps you're coming up against a strong force that's causing you to doubt yourself in some way. .

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) There is a great deal of unexpected communication coming your way today, Sagittarius, but be careful about the people you trust.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You might be a bit confused with the mood of the day, Cancer, which fosters quick action and a sporadic approach to things.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may find that people aren't necessarily very sympathetic to your feelings today, Capricorn. It's quite possible that they're more responsive to facts and information than emotions.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Feel free to match your plaid pants with your paisley shirt today, Leo. Accessorize with wild sneakers and a striped jacket.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You may feel as if people have turned against you today and that they've suddenly lost interest in what you have to say, Aquarius.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Feel free to enlist your own creativity today to solve any problem that may come your way, Virgo. Don't feel like you absolutely need to take a rational and methodical approach.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Let your emotions play with your imagination today, and feel free to discuss your findings openly with others, Pisces. Don't get caught up in so rational a frame of mind that you refuse .

Grand Slam champion will need to defeat another huge server in Australian Nick Kyrgios, who advanced by walkover after Italian Jannik Sinner withdrew from the tournament due to illness.

Nadal holds a 5-3 lead over Kyrgios in their previous meetings. Earlier in the day Kecmanovic absorbed Berrettini’s power serve in the first set, converting on a break point chance in the fourth game, as a frustrated Berrettini won just eight return points.

But Kecmanovic, 22, was unable to close out the match as a break point opportunity slipped through his fingers late in the second set, in which Berrettini, who reached his first Grand Slam final at Wimbledon last year, struck 21 winners and won a tense tiebreak to level.

Berrettini saved two breaks in the eighth game in a tightly fought final set to stay alive but Kecmanovic pounced to break the Italian’s serve to love in the final game.

He will next play Taylor Fritz who outlasted Australian Alex de Minaur 3-6 6-4 76(5). A break down in the third, it was the second consecutive match Fritz won in a third-set tiebreaker.

Elsewhere, Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov beat American John Isner 6-3 7-6(6) and will face Andrey Rublev in the

Nicolette Fernandes...

From page 35 counter-attacked to two consecutive points before Khalil closed off the game 11-4.

With the score at 1-all, the 23-year-old Fernandes, who had an eight-year run competing in the junior national and Caribbean championships, put the pressure on the defending Champion with good backhand drives and lengthy rallies before losing 11-8.

In the fourth and deciding game, Fernandes, the 2017 Caribbean U-19 Champion again pushed Khalil, winning some good points with clever shots but in the end it was Khalil who prevailed 12-10, 114, 11-8, 11-9 with mixed explosive drives and deft drop shots.

In the other Women’s game on Wednesday night Larissa Wiltshire defeated Ashley DeGroot 3-2 in another energy-sapping encounter.

The third place Play-off will commence at 12: 30 PM and precede the final.

Rafael Nadal (ESP) hits a shot as he defeats Reilly Opelka (USA) in the fourth round at theBNPParibas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

(Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports) quarters after the Russian won a tight opening set before easing past Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(5) 6-4. Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest Indian Wells men’s quarterfinalist since 17-year-old

Michael Chang in 1989, as the 18-year-old Spaniard beat Gael Monfils 7-5 6-1. Up next for Alcaraz in his first Masters quarter-final is 12th seed Cameron Norrie or Jenson Brooksby.

PAGE 32

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

Rawle Toney 3X3 Linden Classic launched at Palm Court

Following the successful staging of the second edition of the Georgetown leg, the maiden Linden version of the Rawle Toney 3x3 Basketball Classic was officially launched yesterday at the Palm Court Sports Bar on Main Street.

The one day tournament is scheduled to commence on April 23rd at Richmond Hill residence of the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Kashif Muhammad. Three teams from Georgetown, alongside five entrants from the Mining Town are penciled to participate.

Winner of the event will pocket $100,000, while the second and third place finisher will collect $75,000

and $50,000 respectively.

Meanwhile, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the 3-point shoot-out victor will be presented with cash incentives.

Rawle Toney, coordinator of the event during brief remarks, stated, “The idea of the event is to spark interest back in basketball in Linden and to bring something new to Linden. Additionally nothing is happening in Linden in terms of sport so this will be the first sporting event in Linden.”

He further stated that the overall intent and objective is to relocate the tournament in the near future to the Mining Town, which will create a sporting activity that is synonymous with Linden.

“The intention is for the event to be a staple of the Linden community in a similar vein to the Kashif and Shanghai Football. That is the objective going forward,” he explained. Toney further disclosed, “Each team will receive a participation or appearance fee of $25,000.

This is being done to set a precedence in basketball for promoters of the sport.”

Meanwhile, Hennessey Brand Manager Atina Samad during brief remarks affirmed that the brand is pleased to support the development of sport, adding that Hennessey via its community initiative has commenced the process of refurbishing courts, an enterprise, which it intends to continue in the foreseeable

future. She further stated that the brand is synonymous with the National Basketball Association (NBA), and that one of the primary aims is to marry sporting development

with entertainment.

Similarly, FK Sports Proprietor Felix Walker affirmed that the company’s passion for sport development is unmatched,

adding that the event provides the perfect opportunity and platform for the establishment to aid in the development of the discipline.

Jamaica begin World Indoor medal hunt today Jamaica Observer - Jamaica will start their medal hunt on the first day as the World Athletics Indoor Championships gets under way early this morning (Jamaica time) at Stark Arena in Belgrade, Serbia.

Tokyo Olympic Games relay gold medallists B r i a n a Wi l l i a m s a n d Shericka Jackson in the women’s 60m and Danniel Thomas-Dodd in the women’s shot put are the Jamaicans who will lead the charge on the opening day where Jamaicans will participate in four events, including the men’s and women’s 400m first round and semi-finals.

The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) named a 16member team (13 women and three men) for the three-day championships and will seek to surpass the two silver medals won the last time the event was held four years ago in Birmingham in the United Kingdom.

Four years ago Thomas-Dodd and triple jumper Kimberly Williams won Jamaica’s two medals and both were included in the list for this year’s renewal. Poland’s 24-yearold Ewa Swoboda, who is unbeaten all year and has taken her personal best down to 6.99 seconds (10th best ever), is the favourite to win the women’s 60m gold, but Ato Boldon, coach of Jamaica’s Briana Williams, has warned that the former World Under-20 double sprint champion should not be counted out.

“The Briana that ran 7.19 seconds in January and 7.09 seconds in February has improved steadily and I think she’s ready to be a factor in Serbia,” he is quoted to have said. “Is there another 60m personal record coming? I believe so.

That’s why we are going.”

Williams and Jackson, who has a personal best 7.2

Sprinter Briana Williams to contest women’s 60m with compatriot Shericka Jackson. (Photo: Observer file)

seconds in the indoor 60m done this year, will have big spikes to fill after Jamaican sprinters have won three of the past five women’s world indoor 60m finals, Shelly-Ann FraserPryce in Sopot, Poland, in 2014, Veronica CampbellBrown in Doha, Qatar, in 2010 and Turkey in 2012 while Elaine ThompsonHerah claimed bronze in 2016 in Portland, Oregon.

A couple of Americans — Marybeth Sant-Price and Mikiah Brisco — have also run impressive times this season and could also feature as all three rounds of the event will be run on the first day, the heats and semi-finals in the morning session and the final later in the day.

After just missing out on advancing to the finals in Tokyo last year, finishing 13th overall, two-time silver medallist Thomas-Dodd will have a lot to prove with a s e a s o n ’s b e s t 1 8 . 8 0 m , her best indoor throw since her national indoor record of 19.22m, set when taking silver at the 2018 World Indoor Championships.

Undoubtedly the beste v e r J a m a i c a n f e m a le thrower, Thomas-Dodd will be seeking to become the firstever Jamaican global throws champion.

Portugal’s European indoor c h a m p i o n A u r i o l Dongmo, the world leader with 19.90m national record, the best indoor throw in the world since 2016, and American Maggie Ewen, who has a best of 19.79m, are both unbeaten this year.

Jamaica is a medal cont e n d e r i n t h e w o m e n ’s 4x400m relay and the three runners Stephenie Ann McPherson, a former finalist and relay medal winner; Roneisha McGregor and Junelle Bromfield are down to contest the 400m, starting Friday morning.

McPherson, who was a finalist in Tokyo, had a limited indoor season but is ranked sixth in Belgrade with a season’s and personal best 51.39 seconds.

Olympic finalist Christopher Taylor will be the lone Jamaican in the men’s 400m and is ranked 16th going into the competition with his season’s best 45.73 seconds

Friday March 18, 2022

PAGE 33

Kaieteur News

Kapp does it again as South Africa trump New Zealand to make it four in four ESPNcricinfo - A heroic performance by Marizanne Kapp, not for the first time at this World Cup either, made all the difference as South Africa extended their winning streak to four matches. Kapp scored 34* in 35 balls as South Africa made hard work of what should have been a simpler chase and snuck home by two wickets, handing New Zealand their third loss in five matches.

It was South Africa’s 13th win chasing in 15 matches (with one no-result and one tie) since the start of 2020, and their first victory over New Zealand in World Cups, and had them drawing level on points with Australia at the top. The result left South Africa one win away from securing a semi-final spot, but New Zealand are in a precarious position and at risk of missing out on the knockouts.

Replying to New Zealand’s 228, South Africa were cruising at 161 for 2 in the 36th over. Laura Wolvaardt had racked up her third successive half-century, after being put down on 33; Sune Luus was on her way to a second fifty, and Amelia Kerr, whose first seven overs cost 46 runs, was brought on to bowl. Cue chaos.

South Africa lost three wickets for nine runs in 27 balls, including both Wolvaardt and Luus, to leave it to the lower order to finish the chase. South Africa needed 59 runs off 59 balls when Luus was dismissed.

Kapp and Chloe Tryon, the same pair that got South Africa out of jail against England, came together to put on 28 runs off 30 balls, but Tryon couldn’t see it through, as she stepped out and hit Frances Mackay to Amelia

Kerr at deep midwicket at the start of the 46th over. South Africa needed 31 off 29 balls then.

When Trisha Chetty, who was with Kapp in the England game, arrived and swung big but got a leading edge for Mackay to collect a return catch, South Africa needed 18 off 17. And when Shabnim Ismail, who finished the England game with Chetty, was bowled by Sophie Devine in the penultimate over, it was 12 off ten.

Ayabonga Khaka, who was not needed to bat in the previous two matches, missed the first ball she faced, and top-edged an attempted hoick the second ball, but it fell safely between mid-off and mid-on to put Kapp back on strike. Kapp smashed Devine over mid-off for four and then pushed her to longon to ensure she would face in the final over. South Africa needed six runs from six balls then. Mackay was tasked with the final over. Off the first ball, Kapp slog-swept her for four. Off the second, she ran a single to long-on, and then met Khaka mid-pitch for a lengthy conversation. With scores level, Khaka went on the back foot to punch Mackay to mid-off for a quick scramble to complete the win as the dressing room erupted in joy. Kapp sank to her haunches in relief. “I’m tired,” she told the television interviewee afterwards. So were New Zealand, after they came back well, but not well enough.

In the end, New Zealand didn’t have enough runs to play with after they were kept to 228 on a good Seddon Park pitch. South Africa’s attack found swing early and then took pace off the ball to

Laura Wolvaardt scored her third half-century on the bounce. (ICC via Getty Images)

prompt a lower-order collapse. New Zealand lost six wickets for 30 runs in 46 balls, and failed to bat out their 50 overs.

Devine fell seven runs short of a second century at this World Cup and put New Zealand in a position to push for a big score. She shared in an 81-run stand for the second wicket with Amelia Kerr and 80 for the fourth wicket with Maddy Green, but New Zealand could not get away from South Africa’s quicks.

Ismail struck at the top and bottom of the innings, Khaka had two catches dropped but still finished with three wickets, while Kapp took two wickets in two balls at the death to cap off a dominant performance from the quicks.

Scores: South Africa 229 for 8 (Wolvaardt 67, Luus 51, Kapp 34*, Amelia Kerr 3-50) beat New Zealand 228 (Devine 93, Amelia Kerr 42, Ismail 3-27, Khaka 3-31, Kapp 2-44) by two wickets.

Sophie Devine missed her second century of the World Cup by just seven runs. (AFP via Getty Images)

Not for the first time, Marizanne Kapp played a leading role in a South Africa win at this World Cup. (ICC via Getty Images)

PAGE 34

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

Root, Stokes centuries put England in command (Reuters) - England pace bowler Matt Fisher collected a wicket with his second ball

on debut as the visitors turned the screws on West Indies in the second test in

Matt Fisher struck with his second ball in Test cricket • Mar 16, 2022 © Getty Images

Barbados yesterday.

West Indies were 71 for one at stumps in their first innings on day two at Kensington Oval, 436 runs behind England, for whom Joe Root (153) and Ben Stokes (120) made contrasting centuries.

England might be a little disappointed to make only one breakthrough, but have probably taken any chance of defeat out of the equation on a pitch that while not exactly a minefield at least is offering some help to the bowlers. “The wicket changed towards the back end of our innings,” said Stokes.

“We’ve seen a few balls spin andbouncebyLeachy(JackLeach) and the seamers thought they were in the game, a lot more than (in the first test in) Antigua anyway.”After nearly two hot days in the field, West Indies captain and open e r Kraigg Brathwaite displayed good

Shamarh Brooks goes back to cut • Mar 16, 2022 © Associated Press

discipline to survive until stumps, unbeaten on 28.

Shamarh Brooks survived a couple of poor shots to be 31 not out.

Fisher received a harsh initiation to the test arena when his first ball was worked by left-hander John Campbell through gully for four.

But the 24-year-old put his next delivery into the corridor of uncertainty outside off stump.

A better player might have left the ball alone, but Campbell, who averages barely 23 at the highest level, dangled his bat, the ball clipping the bottom edge and carrying to the keeper. Fisher was mobbed by his team mates, but that was the only joy England had before the close.

They thought they had a second wicket when Brathwaite was adjudged lbw to Jack Leach, but the decision was overturned when a review showed an outside edge.

England’s other newcomer, Saqib Mahmood, had to wait until the 17th over to be brought into the attack.

Earlier, England exerted an iron grip on the game, declaring at 507 for nine shortly after tea.

Captain Root was his usual stylish self in top-scoring, his 153 from 316 balls his 12th highest test score, before falling lbw to Kemar Roach.

ELEVENTH CENTURY Stokes brought up his 11th test century shortly after lunch, off 114 balls, his third quickest ton after taking 85 deliveries against New Zealand in 2015 and 105 against South Africa in 2016.

He bludgeoned his 120 off 128 balls, including six sixes and 11 fours, before holing out at long-off.

The all-rounder had carefully seen off the new ball before cutting loose and switching into his best Twenty20-style to smash spinner Ve e r a s a m m y Permaul and pace bowler Alzarri Joseph out of the attack. Stokes advanced from 23 to 89 in 37 balls. England later lost several quick wickets going for runs before the declaration.

Friday March 18, 2022

PAGE 35

Kaieteur News

Guinness Nat’l Senior Squash C/ships...

Nicolette Fernandes battles Khalil for female title tomorrow

By Sean Devers With 15 years of experience in the Pro Squash (20032017), a Gold Medalist at the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games in Colombia, being the 2012 Women’s champion in T&T and capturing her sixth title at Senior CASA in 2019 in Guyana, are among her on-Court achievements, Nicolette Fernandes has the pedigree of a Champion.

Fernandes became Guyana’s first female to win both the women’s and men’s titles in 2010 the same year she took the 2010 Sports Woman of year award.

Tomorrow from 1:PM at the Georgetown Club, the super-fit Fernandes, who turns 39 in June, will be favoured take this year’s Women’s title in the Guinness National Senior Squash Championships

Fernandes will battle Khalil in tomorrow’s Final. when she comes up against defending Champion, the feisty 29-year-old Ashley Khalil.

Khalil, who won a Silver and two Bronze Medals at Senior Caribbean Championships, two Bronze Medals at the South American Games

Defending Champion Ashley Khalil (left) beat Taylor 3-1 in the semi-finals on Wednesday night. (Sean Devers photo)

Larissa Wiltshire (left) beat Ashley DeGroot 3-2. (Sean Devers Photo)

and five Bronze Medals at CAC Games, won the title the time the tournament in 2019 before the pandemic began.

On the occasion, Ashley and her Jason-Roy became the first Guyanese siblings to win both titles but tomorrow she will have to play her best

Nicolette Fernandes (foreground) beat Gabrielle Fraser the first Semi-final. (Sean Devers photo) Squash if she hopes to retain her crown.

The fully vaccinated spectators should be in for a squash treat since whoever emerges victorious, a pulsating contest is anticipated.

In her Semi-final on Wednesday evening, Nicolette beat 25-year-old Gabriella Fraser 11-4, 11-5, 112 but the scores were not a true reflection of the quality and competitiveness show by Fraser.

Despite the almost 14year age gap, it was Nicolette who looked the fitter of two as the Canadian-born Guyana demonstrated excellent court craft, skill and speed.

But the much younger

Fraser had her moments and fought some long rallies and remained competitive until the third and final game when fatigue began to affect her shots, especially her backhand drives.

Fernandes used her vast experience to good effect and executed several audacious shots, playing with finesse and tact, working the ball into difficult areas on the wall.

Fraser fought ‘tooth and nail’ and looked her best in the second game but clinical drop shots from Fernandes tested her fitness and stamina as Fraser sprinted from front to back of the Court but just not reach the ball.

The fitness level of

Fernandes should be an example for the younger players and many would never know that in 2007, four years after her professional debut, she suffered a knee injury which kept her out of action for 23 months.

In the other Semi-final Khalil faced Taylor Fernandes, whom she had teamed up with to win bronze in Women’s Doubles action on day five of the Central American and Caribbean Games (CAC Games) in Barranquilla, Colombia.

Long rallies were the feature in the first game and Khalil and Fernandes both played entertaining squash as they pushed each other.

Fernandes maybe, inspired the performance of her illustrious cousin in the first semi-final, beat the 2007 Junior Sports Woman of the year, 12-10 in the first game.

But Khalil, who represented Guyana in Badminton, raced to 9-2 lead in the second as Fernandes, with no pressure on her, hit the ball down to hear the frustrating sound of rubber kissing tin as she gifted Khalil points.

Fernandes, looking bigger and stronger than when squash was last played, (Continued on page 31)

PAGE 36

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

House of Majesty Golf Tournament set for tomorrow at the Lusignan Golf Club The House of Majesty, previously Beacon Ministries, will host what is expected to be a very well attended stroke play golf tournament at the Lusignan Golf Club tomorrow.

This organization under its Founder and past Vice President of the LGC, Pope Emanuel London, has been successfully hosting golf tournaments since 2013.

Prizes in past years were among the richest annually, and this year promises to be no different. Among this year’s prizes will be trophies

for first to fourth in all three flights, longest drive, closest to the flag and best gross.

In addition to trophies each winner will receive an umbrella and a gift bag. Participating golfers will also receive other prizes. Lunch and refreshments will be provided to all registered golfers and guests compliments of House of Majesty.

The tournament will be a celebration of the Ministry’s 26th year of service - an organization which prides itself on uplifting troubled youths and

has a track record of reaching its goals.

In the golf arena the Beacon Ministry House of Majesty has produced Guyana’s number one female golfer, Ms. Shanella London, who in 2013 became the first foreign born female golfer to win the coveted Suriname Open Female first prize. She repeated as female champion again in 2016.

The Ministry also has one of the hottest golfers and likely most improved golfer of 2022 Ms. Eureka Giddings.

Its founder Pope Emanuel Operations Manager Simone Allen hands over check to President of LGC Patangilee Persaud. On his right is VP of LGC Paton George and on the other side standing next to Ms. Allen is Archbishop Guy Griffith.

London has also won his fair share of prizes both here and abroad since joining the Lusignan Golf club in 2012.

Registration is open to members and non-members until noon today, Friday, 18th March. The tournament will

be played at two intervals to accommodate all golfers: The first set t-off is at 7:30hrs and the second at 12:30hrs.

Halep downs Martic, faces Swiatek in Indian Wells semi-finals (Reuters) - Simona Halep took less than an hour to breeze past Petra Martic 6-1 6-1 on Wednesday and reach the semi-finals of the WTA Indian Wells tournament for the fourth time, while Iga Swiatek also advanced in style dismantling Madison Keys.

Halep went up a break at 2-1 in the opening set after her opponent double-faulted, and the Romanian reeled off the next six games behind confident groundstrokes and precise serving.

The tournament’s 2015 champion was never really pushed, winning 55 points to Martic’s 21.

The unseeded Martic had notched impressive wins over 28th-seeded Ludmilla Samsonova and U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu en route to the quarter-final, but appeared to run out of gas under sunny skies in the California desert.

“I feel like I played my best tennis so far this year,” said Halep, who beat Martic in the 2018 quarter-final in three sets.

“I knew it was going to be a tough match against her.

The one in 2018 was a longer match and was much more difficult. But today I felt great.

Simona Halep (ROM) waves to the crowd after defeating Petra Martic (CRO) in her quarterfinal match at the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. (Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports) I’ve been on a mission. I wanted to be focused on what I had to do.

“When I entered the court, I said my return has to be strong because she has a huge serve with a kick.

At my height, it’s not easy to return. But I did it pretty well.

I practiced it a little bit more yesterday and this morning.”

Next up for Halep is Swiatek, who got past bigserving American Keys 6-1 60 in 56 minutes. The pair have met three times previously with Halep winning twice.

“Tough match, because she’s playing the best tennis of her life,” Halep said. “She’s in the best moment. I expect a

really tough one. But I’m here in the semi-final, so I’ll take that. I’ll just try my best.”

Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion, had been pushed to three sets in her last three matches but looked in a hurry to secure a WTA Tour-leading 18th victory of the season.

“I was getting tired a little bit, so I wanted to make it quick,” said the 20-year-old Pole.

“Madison played a great tournament. Her whole season is pretty great. I didn’t really know if I was going to be able to push back her speed, because she can play pretty fast. I wanted to stay low on my legs and control it a little more.”

Kaieteur News

Friday March 18, 2022

GBA First VP Dr. Marissa Parris to attend IBA ringside doctor's certification course

F

rom March 28 to April 3 in Guayaquil, Ecuador, the First Vice President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Dr. Marissa Parris, will be making a bit of local boxing history when she attends an International Boxing Association (IBA) ringside doctor's certification course.

It will be the first time a Guyanese is attending an IBA ringside doctor's certification course.

President of the GBA, Steve Ninvalle, explained that his association “bent backward” to have Parris attend the course as it fits into their developmental drive.

Ninvalle pointed out that the GBA is keen on developing all facets of the

sport and as such, Dr. Parris' knowledge in the medical profession will go hand-inhand with what she will learn in the South American country.

Dr. Parris, the daughter of Guyana's lone Olympic medal holder, Michael Parris, will join 19 other doctors from Aruba, Barbados, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El, Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, St, Lucia, and the USA at the course.

According to the IBA, the main objective is to help develop their Ringside Doctors and increase the pool of elite ringside doctors around the world.

The respective course

consists of theoretical and practical sessions followed by a theoretical and practical examination.

The course, as well as the theory examination, is being conducted in both English and Spanish and is open for the already certified doctors as well as the doctors those who are seeking IBA certification for the first time.

First Vice President of the GBA, Dr. Marissa Parris

PAGE 37

GBA President Steve Ninvalle

PAGE 38

Kaieteur News

Friday March 18, 2022

Friday March 18, 2022

Kaieteur News

PAGE 39

Joe Root fell to Kemar Roach after lunch Mar 16, 2022 © Getty Images

s

rt Spo

Root, Stokes centuries put England in command Tournament coordinator Rawle Toney (2nd from left) collecting the championship ball from Hennessey Brand Manager Atina Samad in the presence of other officials.

Rawle Toney 3X3 Linden Classic launched at Palm Court p. 28

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